Is a 4cyl 4x4 more capable for offroad than a 6cyl 2wd?

Hi everyone, I can't find any videos, but probably because it is intuitive. I've driven the 4cyl, 4x2, but I really wanted a 4x4. I can't really afford the V6 4x4, but I can the 4cyl.

If I want to do any off-roading and trails, will a 4x4 in the 4cyl. be ok? I don't need to go in the truly giant mudholes, more forestry, sometimes the roads are unpredictable, no snow. I don't like the acceleration of the 4, but I don't need to haul anything over 3500 pounds either. I found some great deals on 4cyl. 4x2, brand new, but again, wanted a 4x4. No, I probably don't need it. I wanted it. Sounds like fun, but if 4x4 in a four-cylinder is not worth getting, then I don't need it.

 

Sounds like I shouldn't get one at all . Seriously though, you don't like either the v4 or v6? or do you mean the 4x4 part?

 

4 cylinder with an mt in my truck is a pile of fun, esp in 4wd

I would be super hesitant to get a 4 cyl in a new taco though - automatic tranny only and a heavier truck is gonna be loads of sadness.

 

I will take the 4 over the six all day long.

 

Ain't nothing wrong with a 4cyl 4wd, especially if it's a manual. (Sadly which they no longer make)
No hard-core wheeling, but I've had mine off road a bunch and have yet to be disappointed.
The 6 is the only way to go if you're going new, IMO.

 

I believe you, but how come?

 

You're mixing apples and oranges with engines and drive lines.

If you need 4wd, a 4 cyl 4wd will outdo a 6 cyl 2wd.

If you don't need 4wd.......

If you want a 4wd 6 either shop older or save more for your purchase.

 

You want a v6 4x4, save up and buy a v6 4x4.

 

Off road a 4 cyl engine is no handicap at all. In some ways better since they tend to be geared lower. The V6 has more power for towing and hauling loads.

 

There's an awful lot of truth in what Whatstcp said. Settle for less and it'll haunt the crap out of you forever. Nothing wrong with a 4 cylinder. Land Rover used them as standard in everything from the original 80" wheel base back in the late 40's to the 12 seater Safari way down the road. They did drop a straight 6 into the ones they exported to the states back in the 60's, I think it was. Changed the diffs too to allow for our interstate system. Forgive me for mentioning "them other guys" on the Tacoma page. Lol. The one thing I will say is that if you do any interstate driving at all, you'll be glad you have a V6.

 

I think my biggest regret would be towing, if I ever need it, and pick-up (pun intended) to get on the Interstate (daily). I had a Civic once and it was difficult to get up to speed.

 

I have a 2wd V6 and it does fine for me "off-road". I put it in quotation marks because I mean it lightly. My truck handles dirt roads just fine, but for actual land conquering, I have no idea. It does help that the truck comes with a rear locker, but I just use it to slide around. That being said, my V6 2wd does alright. Handles river beds like a champ. I do have my recovery gear with me though. Recovery boards, shovels, and a wooden pallet, if it's that bad.

 

You have a 2WD pickup with a rear locking diff? Never heard of such a thing. But I'm ancient and new to Tacomas so that shouldn't surprise anybody. Glad you enjoy your rig. Be careful.

 

4cylider 4x4 are rare, is it manual locking hubs if so also a plus. Dont worry about the rear locker my 4runner and truck have them and neverrrrr needed it.